A tragic shooting in Rittman has left the community in mourning after four people, including a Rittman police sergeant, were killed during a violent overnight incident that also injured several other law enforcement officers.

According to authorities, officers were dispatched at approximately 9:30 p.m. Sunday following a 911 call reporting a disturbance and gunfire at a residence. When responding officers arrived, they immediately came under heavy gunfire, triggering a large-scale law enforcement response involving multiple agencies.

The fallen officer was identified as Scott Ries, a 10-year veteran of the Rittman Police Department. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was also found dead, along with two civilians. Multiple responding officers from neighboring agencies were injured during the exchange of gunfire, and a police K-9 also sustained serious injuries.

Reports circulating online have identified one of the civilian victims as Brandon Fazekas. However, as of this writing, law enforcement has not officially confirmed the identities of the civilian victims. Investigators continue working to notify families and verify all details before releasing additional information.

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation has assumed responsibility for the investigation and is working alongside local authorities to determine the sequence of events, the motive behind the shooting, and the circumstances that led to the deadly confrontation. Detectives are processing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing information gathered from the scene.

The deaths have sent shockwaves through the Rittman community, where residents are mourning the loss of life and expressing support for the families affected. Tributes have begun pouring in for Sgt. Scott Ries, who is being remembered for his years of dedicated service to the community.

Authorities are expected to release further information as the investigation progresses and the identities of all victims are formally confirmed. Until then, officials continue to urge the public to rely on verified updates as investigators work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the Rittman shooting.